Local news: Oxford
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Oxford startups OXCCU and A&B Smart Materials recognised in Startups 100 Index 2026
Two Oxford-based companies have been named in the Startups 100 Index 2026, with OXCCU ranking fourth and winning the Sustainability Award, and A&B Smart Materials recognised for its biodegradable polymer technology, highlighting Oxford’s rising influence in UK innovation.
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Free Oxford park and ride bus journeys extended until March 2026
Free park and ride bus journeys in Oxford have been extended until March 2026 after a sharp rise in passenger numbers, supporting the temporary congestion charge and reducing traffic in the city.
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Stevenage and Milton Keynes now rival Oxford and Cambridge as supercluster growth spreads
New research shows Stevenage and Milton Keynes now rival Oxford and Cambridge for economic growth, as business leaders call on government to fast-track East West Rail approvals to unlock a £78bn growth opportunity across the supercluster.
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Rising indie artist Tom A. Smith to bring 2026 UK headline tour to Oxford’s Bullingdon
Rising indie artist Tom A. Smith brings his 2026 UK headline tour to Oxford’s Bullingdon this April, following the release of his acclaimed EP Say What You Want and a breakthrough year of major live performances.
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New Theatre Oxford partners with The Store for Inspector Morse mystery competition
New Theatre Oxford and The Store have launched a city-centre Inspector Morse mystery competition, inviting the public to solve clues in a themed window display as Inspector Morse: House of Ghosts arrives in Oxford this January.
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voco Oxford offer free luxury stay to lift Blue Monday blues
voco Oxford is helping locals beat Blue Monday by offering a complimentary luxury stay at one of its Oxfordshire hotels, complete with dinner and breakfast. The annual giveaway returns for its fourth year in January 2026.
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The Ivy relaunches £19.17 menu as Brits redefine luxury in 2026
New research shows Brits now value time, connection and affordable treats over extravagance. The Ivy has responded by expanding its iconic £19.17 1917 set menu, offering more seasonal dishes and accessible luxury across its restaurants.
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Inflatable dinosaurs and rubber ducks top list of bizarre items left on Oxford buses
From inflatable dinosaur costumes to bags of rubber ducks, Oxford Bus Company has revealed the strangest items left on its buses in 2025, alongside thousands of everyday essentials logged and reunited with passengers using digital technology.
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Oxford doctors share the health resolutions they are making for 2026
Oxford doctors have revealed the health resolutions they’ll be making and recommending in 2026, including eating more fibre, wearing sunscreen year-round and prioritising sexual health. The advice comes ahead of the opening of Welbeck Health Partners’ new £30m medical centre in north Oxford.
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Christmas Light Bus brings festive cheer to Oxford hospitals
A festive open-top bus covered in twinkling lights visited hospitals across Oxford this Christmas, bringing music, gifts and cheer to patients and staff. The Christmas Light Bus was a special extension of Oxford Bus Company’s popular seasonal tour.












